UAB registering participants for historic cancer study until Aug. 29

The Cancer Prevention Study-3 seeks men and women ages 30-65 who never have been diagnosed with cancer and are willing to make a long-term commitment to a study that will help researchers better understand the factors that may cause or prevent the disease.

“We now know that at least 60 percent of cancer deaths are preventable,” says Edward Partridge, M.D., director of the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. “I urge the diverse population of Birmingham and surrounding areas to participate in this historic study as we can gain an even better understanding of lifestyle and environmental and genetic factors that can cause or prevent cancer, ultimately helping us find a cure.”

Enrollment into the study is made possible in partnerships with area YMCAs, the City of Birmingham and the Levite Jewish Community Center in Birmingham. To schedule your appointment, find the enrollment location most convenient for you and click on the name of the location. The deadline is Aug. 29.

Enrollment is free. Participants must complete the following steps at their appointment:

Read and sign an informed consent form

Complete a comprehensive survey packet that asks for information on lifestyle, behavior, and other factors related to your health

Have your waist circumference measured

Give a small blood sample (similar to a doctor’s visit, about seven teaspoons total). The blood sample will be drawn by a trained, certified phlebotomist.

Periodic follow-up surveys will be sent to participants requesting updated information; annual newsletters will include study updates and results.

If you are ineligible for the study, encourage those close to you to take part. The study is open to anyone in the United States and Puerto Rico who has never been diagnosed with cancer (not including basal or squamous cell skin cancer) who is willing to commit to it long-term.

Visit cancer.org/cps3 or call toll free at 1-888-604-5888 for more information.

Inmates at Donaldson Correctional Facility write and perform a serial drama about life in a maximum-security prison with some assistance from UAB professors who have led an annual lecture series there for decades. It debuts Oct. 22 on WJLD.